Viola 'Back to Black'

A dramatic, velvety viola in the deepest black-purple tones, with a moody presence that rewards close planting and container growing. The flowers have expressive, dark faces that feel theatrical, lending depth and contrast wherever they are placed. I love how unassuming it is, but it’s darkness gives it gravitas.

Despite its richness of colour, this is an easy and generous plant. It flowers freely over a long season, forming compact plants that send up blooms on long, wiry stems, giving it a slightly airy quality above the foliage. It performs particularly well in pots, where the dark flowers can be appreciated up close and don’t risk being lost among surrounding planting.

Uniform in both colour and form, this is a reliable variety for repeated use, especially where a restrained palette or strong contrast is desired.